MotorMouths

Buying an Audi R8 Spyder is not a practical experience. But strangely, it would serve as year-round transportation quite happily and Audi knows how to properly coddle its high-flying customers.

One thing every SLK shares is its head-turning looks and last year’s redesign added some needed aggression to the roadster’s skin. Surprisingly, the ‘Benz offers the best value among sement leaders.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is a rapid, entertaining and cosseting machine that’s as happy running for groceries as it is running for the border.

Look at other V8-powered performance SUVs in the segment, and the Porsche stands out as the most expensive. But none offer the outright performance of the Cayenne, and its flexibility in delivering off-road thrills too.

Audi’s latest S4 rocketship is all new for 2010, and it’s very, very good. It takes a modern view to performance and does away with all that’s wasteful. A pure Audi? It does exist.

The Dodge Challenger always had the personality, but now it has the performance – both in a straight line and in the twisties – to run with the Chevy and Ford. And with only a minor price increase too.

So a tad over $50,000 all-in for a safe, stylish, torque-happy European sports sedan that’s not an Audi or BMW – and priced significantly below both. The 2012 Volvo S60 R-Design is far from a no-brainer decision, but it’s one that our hearts can get behind.

For those who can get past the challenging exterior design and lack of low-end pop, the V6-powered Panamera and Panamera 4 are legitimate contenders in the luxury and near-luxury class.

The Avenger is a more complete package now than ever before, and has the interior, handling and refinement that are the equal of virtually any mid-sizer out there.

Ultimately, the C250 Coupe will appeal to those wanting the solidity, brand strength and good manners that Mercedes-Benz offers in the popular sedan. Definitely worth a drive.

Those few who mourn the old Sorento and its simple, rugged construction will certainly be outweighed by the much larger group of customers looking for a great value on a good looking, well-equipped crossover.

The E550 Convertible is a great car. It will inevitably spend most of its life being a trophy, rarely topping the speed limit, never pushing the limits of the driver or the car itself. So kudos to Mercedes-Benz for making this car much better than it ever needed to be.